Privacy Policy
Privacy Policy
Last Updated: January 2026
1. Introduction
Kate Austin Family Law (referred to as “we”, “us”, or “our”) is committed to protecting your privacy and ensuring that your personal information is handled in accordance with the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) and the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs).
This policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your information when you visit our website (kateaustinlaw.com.au) or engage our legal services.
2. Information We Collect
In the course of providing legal services, specifically regarding Consent Orders and family law matters, we may collect:
Identity Information: Full names, dates of birth, and relationship status.
Contact Information: Email addresses, phone numbers, and residential addresses.
Financial Information: Details of assets, liabilities, and superannuation (necessary for drafting Consent Orders).
Sensitive Information: Information about children, health, or domestic circumstances. We only collect this with your explicit consent or where required by law.
Technical Data: IP addresses, browser types, and usage data via cookies to improve website performance.
3. How We Collect Information
We collect information directly from you when you:
Fill out an online quote or contact form.
Provide instructions to our solicitors or staff.
Communicate with us via email, phone, or in person.
Use our website (via cookies and analytics tools).
4. Purpose of Collection
We collect and use your information for the following purposes:
Legal Service Delivery: To draft Consent Orders, provide legal advice, and represent your interests.
Verification: To comply with “Know Your Client” (KYC) requirements and anti-money laundering laws.
Communication: To provide updates on your matter and respond to inquiries.
Compliance: To meet our professional and ethical obligations as legal practitioners.
Marketing: To send relevant legal updates or promotional information, provided you have opted in. You may opt out at any time.
5. Disclosure of Your Information
We do not sell or lease your personal information. We may disclose your information to:
The Courts: Specifically the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia for the filing of Consent Orders.
Third-Party Providers: IT service providers, practice management software, and secure document storage facilities located in Australia.
Law Enforcement: Where required by law, subpoena, or court order.
The Other Party: Only as required by the legal process and as instructed by you.
6. Data Security and Storage
We take reasonable steps to protect your data from unauthorized access, loss, or misuse. This includes:
Secure SSL encryption on our website.
Two-factor authentication (2FA) for internal systems.
Physical security for our offices in Brisbane, Sydney, and Melbourne.
Data Retention: We generally retain legal files for 7 years (or as required by law) before secure destruction.
7. International Data Transfers
Most of our data is stored on Australian servers. If we use third-party cloud services that host data overseas, we ensure they comply with standards equivalent to the Australian Privacy Principles.
8. Your Rights: Access and Correction
Under the APPs, you have the right to:
Access: Request a copy of the personal information we hold about you.
Correction: Request that we update or correct inaccurate or out-of-date information.
To exercise these rights, please contact our Privacy Officer at the details below.
9. Cookies and Tracking
Our website uses cookies to enhance user experience. You can choose to accept or decline cookies through your browser settings. Declining cookies may prevent you from taking full advantage of the website’s functionality.
10. Complaints
If you believe we have breached the Australian Privacy Principles, please contact us in writing. We will investigate and respond to your complaint within 30 days. If you are not satisfied with our response, you may contact the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) at www.oaic.gov.au.
11. Contact Us
For any questions regarding this policy or your personal data, please contact:
The Privacy Officer Kate Austin Family Law (MDB Legal Services Pty Limited) PO BOX 12120 George Street, QLD 4003 Email: [email protected] Phone: 07 3128 0222
